The Blanche family is grieving the death of their glamorous shining star, Willona, as she succumbed to a devastatingly aggressive cancer on February 24th. Willona Georgia (nee Skinner), age 72, was the daughter of 100 year old Iona Skinner, wife of Ian, mother to Ben (Mollie), Matthew (Lindsay), and Sarah (Chad). The loves of her life were her grandchildren Lily and Jack, Kieran and Liam, Paige, Charlotte and Nolan. She also leaves her brothers George (Biggie), Bill (Flo), and many many friends, all of whom adored her.

Willona graduated with BScN at U of T. Her nursing career worked included working for VON, and as a clinical teacher at George Brown College. She returned to school to obtain a BEd and MEd, transitioning to roles as a special needs counsellor and the Director of Special Needs for Durham College and UOIT. In these positions she assisted many young people to achieve their potential.

Willona's legacy lives on in treasured memories by her family and friends. She was beautiful, funny, kind, vivacious, smart, and never without her bright pink lipstick. She was some lady!!
Willona chose not to have a funeral. A memorial bench will be installed at Heber Downs Conservation Area in the future. Should you wish to honour her, donations may be made to Lakeridge Health Foundation